Avoid Auto Accidents in Construction Zones

It's usually a good thing when your state ranks among the top three in a category, such as one of the best places to live or having the best beaches in the world. Unfortunately, highway statistics also play a role in rankings; whether the accident rate is high, for example.

While Florida has the distinction of being tops for many good reasons, it is also among the top three staes for having the most roadway auto accidents in construction zones, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which rates states for the injuries caused to drivers as well as road workers under the heading of workplace safety and health. Florida shares this ranking with Texas and California.

"Roadway work zones are hazardous both for motorists who drive through the complex array of signs, barrels, and lane changes and for workers who build, repair, and maintain our nation’s streets, bridges, and highways," states the CDC on its website. While the Federal Highway Administration reports fatal crashes in construction and maintenance work zones dropped from 716 in 2008 to 667 in 2009. Texas, Florida, and California ranked as the three states with the most motor vehicle crash fatalities in work zones.

Driver Safety Tips To Avoid An Auto Accident In a Construction Zone:

Stay Alert: Expect anything to occur when entering a work zone

Pay Close Attention: Signs and work zone flaggers save lives

Turn on Your Headlights: Workers and other motorists must see you

Don’t Tailgate: Unexpected stops frequently occur in work zones, keep 2 car lengths between you and the car in front of you

Don’t Speed: Note the posted speed limits in and around the work zone and stick to them

Keep Up With the Traffic Flow: Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and those traveling around you

Don’t Change Lanes in the Work Zone: Any time saved just isn’t worth it

Minimize Distractions: Avoid changing radio stations and using cell phones while driving in the work zone

Expect the Unexpected: Keep an eye out for workers and their equipment

Be Patient: Remember the work zone crew members are working to improve your future ride

Keep yourself safe when driving through a construction zone in Ft. Lauderdale and throughout Florida. Avoid an auto accident and injury to yourself and highway workers by staying alert and obeying the laws governing construction zones.